Olafur Eliasson: The cubic structural evolution project

As a hands-on opportunity to build a perpetually evolving ‘city of the future’, The cubic structural evolution project 2004 celebrates creativity and collective effort. Since 2005, when it entered the QAGOMA Collection, generations of children and adults have taken up Eliasson’s invitation to join together and become co‑producers of this work. The cubic structural evolution project is transformed every day and therefore is never finished.

Looking towards the Brisbane River, we see the city skyline. Comparing the actual and model cities, we see the shared energy possible when we work together. For Eliasson, art, maths, design, science and technology are not mutually exclusive disciplines. In fact, each is stronger and more energised by its interplay with the others.

Feature image: Olafur Eliasson's The cubic structural evolution project 2004, installed for 'Presence', December 2025 / ABS plastic / Purchased 2005. Queensland Art Gallery Foundation Grant / © Olafur Eliasson / Photograph: C Baxter, QAGOMA